Navigating divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to make the best decisions for your family’s future. At Johnson Mediation, we understand these challenges and offer Early Neutral Evaluation (ENE) services to help Minnesota residents find resolution with less stress, time, and expense than traditional litigation, make the process better for the children as well as the two of you.
Early Neutral Evaluation is an alternative dispute resolution process where a neutral third party reviews your case and provides an objective evaluation. In the ENE process, trained professionals review the specifics of your case and provide an objective evaluation to help the divorcing couple make informed decisions. This approach helps couples understand the likely outcome if their case went to trial, while keeping the matter out of court.
ENE is completely voluntary and confidential, giving you a safe space to discuss important matters without fear that your words will later be used in court.
Types of Early Neutral Evaluations
There are two primary types of Early Neutral Evaluations for divorce cases:
- Financial Early Neutral Evaluation (FENE)
A Financial Early Neutral Evaluation addresses property division, debt distribution, and financial support issues such as child support and spousal maintenance. The primary purpose is to offer parties an early neutral evaluation of financial issues with the hope that with pertinent neutral information, they’ll be able to reach an early settlement.
This process helps reduce the chance that your financial resources will be depleted by costly litigation. The FENE is typically conducted by one evaluator who specializes in financial matters related to divorce. - Social Early Neutral Evaluation (SENE)
Social Early Neutral Evaluations are short-term, entirely confidential proceedings designed to encourage fast dispute resolution in parenting time and Family Court custody issues. This program typically uses a male and female team, with one being an attorney and the other a child specialist, to assist with custody and parenting time issues.
The SENE process is generally completed within one month, offering a faster resolution than traditional court proceedings.
The Early Neutral Evaluation Process
While similar to mediation because it helps resolve disagreements and create common ground, ENE differs in that the evaluators will provide recommendations they see as best fit for both parties after hearing each side.
Here’s what to expect:
1. Initial Meeting: The first meeting with your evaluator typically takes place within 7 days of your Initial Case Management Conference.
2. Information Gathering: Each party presents their pertinent information to the evaluator(s).
3. Neutral Feedback: The ENE team offers feedback about the case to both sides.
4. Settlement Discussion: Settlement options are discussed with the goal of resolving all outstanding issues.
5. Resolution: If an agreement is reached, it’s submitted to the judge. If not, the judge is simply informed that an agreement wasn’t reached, and will consult with both parties to determine next steps.
Benefits of Early Neutral Evaluation
• Save Time and Money: Resolve disputes faster and with less expense than traditional litigation.
• Maintain Control: You make the decisions about your future, not a judge.
• Reduce Conflict: The process is designed to be collaborative rather than adversarial.
• Professional Guidance: Receive neutral, expert feedback on likely outcomes of your case.
• Confidentiality: Discussions remain private and cannot be used in court proceedings.
At Johnson Mediation, we focus on you, your family, and your future by assisting you throughout the entire divorce process. We look at your unique situation to provide the tools, expertise, and resources so you can make fully informed decisions.
Our owner, Jeff Johnson, has personally experienced divorce and understands the emotional challenges it brings. This firsthand experience, combined with professional expertise, allows us to provide compassionate and effective support during this difficult time.
Whether you currently have attorneys or are looking to navigate the divorce process without one, Johnson Mediation should be your first call. We offer a free consultation to discuss your needs and develop a plan that accomplishes your goals.
If you’re ready to explore how Early Neutral Evaluation can help you resolve your divorce more efficiently and amicably, contact Johnson Mediation today. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through this process with professionalism and care.
Phone: 952-401-7599
Email: jeff.johnson@johnson-mediation.com
